What If Elizabeth Gained Notoriety for Refusing Too Many Eligible Suitors?

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Source: Gift from Publisher

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Variation

THE PREMISE: Mr. Bennet has had it, his favorite daughter is being too obstinate and it could potentially damage the marital prospects of her siblings. And so he enforces an ultimatum upon her. One that terrifies Elizabeth, because she will be powerless to refuse the next marriage proposal she might receive. The question is, what proposal would she want to willingly say yes to…?

WHAT I LOVED:

• A Realistic Mr. Bennet: Elizabeth has no idea how fortunate she is in P&P to have her father’s sanction and support. But the reality of it is -with a family as large as hers and the circumstances of the entailment and lack of dowries – Mr. Bennet would most likely be more eager to ensure Elizabeth’s future security than any marital felicity. Mr. Bennet’s actions in this story may make him a little less likable, but I think his choices are realistic for the Bennets’ situation. To see Elizabeth faced with less support and freedom of choice is an interesting and authentic challenge to explore.

• Different Developments: I love that there was so much that was new in this variation! There was this big boathouse episode where Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth assist and are trapped with Mr. Collins, a smoother path for Jane and Bingley, and a new original character – Mr. Nugent – who becomes one of Elizabeth’s ardent admirers. All of these elements steer our characters into new directions, which were very exciting to follow. Oh and I definitely did not repine Mr. Wickham receiving less page time and attention.

• Mr. Darcy’s Understanding and Consideration: Mr. Darcy’s time in the boathouse was insightful. He discovered both Elizabeth’s true opinion of him and her pressing situation with her cousin. She already had his admiration, but since that day in the boathouse Elizabeth now has his attentive concern. When gossip about her father’s edict reaches him, Mr. Darcy’s anxiety for and desire to protect Elizabeth increase tenfold. I loved seeing this side of Mr. Darcy. Not only is he less arrogant and less selfish, he is more in-tune with and perceptive of Elizabeth’ feelings and situation. And rather than wrestling between his duty and desires, he is wrestling with patiently supporting her desires and hoping to achieve his own.

• Elizabeth’s Wisdom and Growth: Elizabeth suffers disappointment and apprehension, but she continues to act rationally and wisely. She is sustained by the compassion and consideration she receives from her aunt Gardiner, Mrs. Collins, and believe it or not Mr. Darcy. While in Kent, Elizabeth soon realizes how much she cherishes and esteems his company. And eventually she becomes aware of the leanings of her own heart. I loved this journey for Elizabeth. She is no longer quick to judge and misjudge. And her experiences with suitors has brought on some new awareness and understanding of what she values most in a relationship.

WHAT COULD”VE BEEN BETTER:

• Nothing!

FINAL THOUGHTS:

✨ Bright, thoughtful, and diverting – this may be my new favorite from Jan Ashton.

🫶🏼 I adored the gentle friendship, patient consideration, and yearning hope between Darcy and Elizabeth.

💕  Familial tyranny doesn’t stand a chance against unselfish love!

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